‘The Voice': Eliminations and Oklahoma tributes

Two more singers are sent packing tonight. But first, coach Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert pay tribute to his home state with a stripped down version of “Over You.” Simple and beautiful.

The feel-goodness continues with Team Shakira, who runs through heartfelt Pretenders’ classic “I’ll Stand by You.” (I’ve always loved Shakira’s version.) It’s like a mini-telethon. And I’m not complaining. This is nice and feels removed from the pressure of the competition.

And then Vin Diesel shows up wearing sunglasses indoors and d-bags up the whole place. THANKS A LOT, VIN DIESEL.

Danielle Bradbery, our Cypress girl, is the first person declared safe. Obvious out of the way first. Also safe, and no surprise, is Judith Hill.

Team Blake takes the stage with “Mountain Music,” and it’s not even funny how much Danielle stands out from the rest of the pack. The Swon Brothers and Holly Tucker are like her backup singers.

More saves: Michelle Chamuel! YAY! Sasha Allen! Also yay!

Team Usher onstage singing, for some unknown reason, “The Look of Love.” And why is he removing his jacket mid-song? I can’t with you, Usher. The only think I like is that Michelle is on your team.

Sarah Simmons is called safe then takes the stage alongside Amber Carrington (also safe) and Judith for “I Got the Music in Me.” This show is getting more and more random as the hour progresses. And those dresses give the whole thing a ’70s variety show feel. I do, however, appreciate the edge in Amber’s voice, which hasn’t been apparent in previous performances.

There’s really no reason to stretch this out. As I, and likely several of you, predicted, Josiah Hawley and Kris Thomas are out. That leaves seven females and the Swon Brothers, who will probably be gone next week. This is a girl’s game — and we’re still looking at you, Danielle.

All of the remaining finalists are outstanding. Every one of them could be a huge success if they could get the right break. My favorites are the Swon brothers because they could become the next comedy hour hosts. We sorely miss that sort of live (or pre-recorded) entertainment show. The competition will be between Danielle and Judith. I hope Danielle wins it but all of them are absolutely fabulous. If one of the coaches or producers do not sign Chris and Josiah to a deal, they are crazy. Hope someone picks them both up because they are really fun to watch.

Barrin craziness, The Swon Bros and either Holly/Amber (I think Amber stays)probably go home next week. Leaving a great final between Judith, Sasha, Danielle, Michelle, Sarah, and whats left in the Holly/Amber deal. For this being what I thought was a weak season – the top 5 are very strong.